The Ministry of Customs and Revenue has seized nearly two kilograms of methamphetamine hidden inside a shipment of rice bags, in what officials say is the country’s third major drug interception this year.

The bust took place on Thursday, 4 September, when Customs officers discovered 1,835 grams of methamphetamine concealed within four bags of rice in a consignment from the United States. Authorities identified a 46-year-old man as the importer, and both the suspect and the drugs have been handed over to the police for further investigation.

Caretaker Minister of Customs and Revenue Tuala Ioesefo Ponifasio praised officers for their diligence and said the operation underscored the importance of intelligence-led policing.

“I’m very pleased with the way Customs are handling the process down there. Some of the long work and intelligence that has been taking place has finally come through. These things take time,” Tuala said.

He suggested traffickers may have tried to exploit the distraction of Samoa’s election period, but said the ministry remained vigilant.

“They need to know that this is the time we are more vigilant and meticulous with our work. I’ve already told the staff to keep doing the good work,” Tuala said.

The Ministry estimates the seizure prevented more than $1.8 million in community damage, highlighting the toll illicit drugs can have on families and public safety.

“This seizure is another clear example of the importance of vigilance, pro-activeness and intelligence in the fight against transnational crime,” Customs CEO Fonoti said in the statement. “By preventing these harmful substances from reaching our communities, we are protecting families, safeguarding lives, and upholding Samoa’s safety and wellbeing.”

Samoa Customs urged the public to remain alert and report suspicious cross-border activity.

“This shows that, despite the challenges, Samoa remains firm in protecting its borders and people from the devastating impacts of illicit drugs,” Tuala said.